General Dentist Referrals

[UCB]

This message is more for people who are in general private practice. I'm curious about when specialists come knocking on your door for referrals, what kind of factors do you consider in making that referral and saying that this specialist is my guy that I want to send my patients to. Any input in this matter would be greatly appreciated.

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[Ineedanassociate]

While I am here in northern Vermont and don't have all that much choice when it comes to specialists. I do have some insight into why I refer the way I do.1: Communication do they keep me informed ? Phone calls returned promptly. Written communication promptly and consistently sent. 2: Similar treatment philiosophies! Do you agree and support each others Dx and TX plans? 3 atient satisfaction do patients come back to you raving about Dr. Soandso that you sent me to see?

 

[DrJeff]

I'm in a similiar situation and have similiar beliefs. In Northeast Connecticut, while I have some options, there aren't alot of choices. I try to do some personality matching if possible (i.e. of the 2 oral surgeons I refer to, 1 has more of a "touchy, feely" personality and one is a cut right to the case type of guy. I though don't have any reservations about sending my patients to a specialist that may be located further away based on treatment philosophy or skill level. Lastly, but certainly not least, you listen to patient feedback. If I'm hearing alot of negative feedback, I'm either having lunch quickly with the specialist and voicing my concerns, or referring elsewhere. Example, when referring for implant placement, my patients travel about 40 miles to an oral surgeon. In the same town as this oral surgeon, is a renowned oral surgeon who lectures internationally and is actively involved with ITI and their clinical research. This guy while clinically excellent has at best awfull patient skills, and therefore none of my patients business.